The curve or camber on glulam beams should be placed in which direction?

The camber in glulam beams is designed to counteract the effects of deflection that can occur under load. By placing the curve or camber up or on top, the beam can maintain a level appearance and support the intended load effectively.

When weight is applied to a beam, it tends to bend due to the stresses created. By incorporating camber into the design, builders create a proactive approach to deflection. When the beam is loaded, the downward sag caused by the load will effectively straighten the camber, helping to keep the beam level. This design consideration enhances the structural integrity of the beam and improves its performance in construction applications.

In contrast, placing the camber in other positions would not achieve the desired outcome. If it were placed down, it would exacerbate the deflection under load. Positioning the camber on the side or flat would also diminish its effectiveness in compensating for deflection, resulting in potential structural issues. Therefore, having the camber placed up or on top is the most appropriate choice to ensure the glulam beam performs efficiently.